Birthday Week Continued

We had a gathering of friends last night to finish off my week with a bang. I got to wear the new hot dress and necklace that Bryan got me for my birthday! We had great food and wine and the best part was the friends who came and made the party a success!


I made a few appetizers, which you will see here and in the following posts.


First up, Tomato and Basil Crostinis!!

This appetizer was created at home based on an appetizer that Bryan and I had at our wedding! It is very simple and always a crowd pleaser! These suckers were gone by the end of the evening!


Tomato and Basil Crostini


Ingredients: 

One long and skinny baguette (that is thicker bread and won’t have huge gaping holes, because you don’t want the topping to fall through!)

Tomatoes, seeded and diced (I think I usually use 4-6 depending on how big they are)

Fresh basil, finely chopped (not sure how much I use… enough to mix well with the tomatoes and not be over powering)

Salt and Pepper

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Italian Seasoning

Garlic powder

Shredded Mozzarella

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. 

Cut baguette into thin pieces, approximately 1/8 inch thick. Place on a baking sheet. In a small bowl on the side, mix olive oil, salt and pepper. Brush each piece of bread with the oil mixture. Bake the bread for about 10 minutes until lightly browned and nicely toasted.

Dice and seed the tomatoes and place in a large bowl. It’s okay if some juices remain because it will help everything blend later. Chop finely the basil and add to the tomato. Drizzle with olive oil and add salt and pepper to taste. Also add some Italian seasoning and sprinkle on a little garlic powder to taste. Mix well. If you think you need more of any of the ingredients, add however much you feel is needed!

Top the toasted baguettes with the tomato basil mixture. Top with shredded mozzarella. Serve and enjoy! Another great thing about this dish is that the crosinis won't get soggy if they are left out for a few hours!